Listen to the podcast here
This week on Insights with Experts, we were fortunate enough to have an interview with Byron Dempsey. Byron is the founder of Stream Digital Marketing, a content creation agency and the host of the Driven Young podcast, a podcast that aims to educate and to inspire the younger generation.
From a very young age, Byron had a particular focus at school. His primary focus was on creating videos, with much of his motivation stemming from his desire to become a filmmaker. Byron’s passion was palpable throughout his childhood, and he believed that ATAR and the university system would be futile when pursuing a career in creative video.
Byron’s biggest fear for Generation Z:
Byron values the importance of finding a niche. Having a niche, in any form of life, is important because it allows for you to be memorable. He is quick to point out, however, that the educational system downplays the value of such a quality. In the interview, Byron explains how there is not enough focus at school on finding what we are good at. He does, however, present the problem and propose a solution, which is an important aspect of podcasting.
Byron Dempsey: on how to be successful →
There is no one formula; there are a number of common traits found in successful people.
1) Network: “Who you know, rather than what you know.’ Outside of the classroom, it’s all about making connections, meeting new people, and working your way up.
2) Real world experience: It is important to get out into the workplace and try a selection of new things.
3) The fundamental value of taking risks: Stepping outside of your comfort zone is a truism that is extremely relevant. Byron believes that between the ages of 18 and 25, we have a window of freedom to take risks and try things we wouldn’t normally do. During this time frame, the ability to recover will never be easier. So if you fail, pick yourself up and go again!
Byron is a firm believer in surrounding yourself with high-quality people. As a result, he believes in the resulting idea that if you surround yourself with four idiots, you will become the fifth idiot. Whereas, if you surround yourself with four winners, you will be the fifth winner.
As a student, how do I network?
- The 1000 door concept: behind a single door, may be another 1000 doors. But, behind each door is a room with more doors. And behind THOSE doors will be other rooms with EVEN MORE DOORS. If you keep opening doors, you will end up on an amazing journey that is filled with new experiences, new people and new cultures.
- Volunteer: go to volunteering events, put yourself out there and most importantly be curious.
- Be genuine: the value of sincerity cannot be overstated. Too many people nowadays are only waiting for their turn to speak, rather than being genuine and appreciating what others have to say. If you truly listen to others and care about what they have to say, you will have a different perspective on life; one that is enriched and genuine.
Do you have any advice for young people who are starting podcasts or making videos?
If you want to start a podcast, start a podcast. Ignore any criticism or hate that you receive. It is important to be resilient and persistent, otherwise you will fall at the first hurdle.
Whether you succeed or fail, you are going to grow. That is an important mindset that you have to adopt. Embracing failure is essential; it is a fundamental building block for growth.
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